Oatmeal Bread

Quick & easy bread!

I often make this bread for bake sales or to give as a gift. It’s one my Mom made when I was growing up. It has survived the test of time. I especially love it toasted with a slice of cheese on it or peanut butter! It smells wonderful while it’s baking. I hope you will like it too!

Oatmeal Bread:
1 cup quick oatmeal
1 tsp salt
2 cups boiling water
5 Tbsp shortening
2/3 cup brown sugar
2 Tbsp molasses

Place ingredients in a large mixing bowl and let stand until cools to luke warm. Dissolve 1 pkg regular dry yeast in 1/4 cup warm water; let stand until foamy (I add a tsp of sugar to speed it up); add to the oatmeal mixture. Add 4 1/2 cups flour, turn out on floured surface, cover with towel and let rest for 10 minutes, then knead for 6-8 minutes. Put kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover and let rise until doubled. then knead down and let rise again. After dough has risen twice, put out on floured board, divide in half and shape each half into a round or loaf shape. When I want a rustic look I spray two 9 inch round pans with vegetable spray and coat lightly with corn meal. Place the shaped bread in pan, then brush the top with a slightly beaten egg white and sprinkle with oatmeal. Cover with towel, let rise until double, then bake in preheated 350 degree oven, 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bread sounds hollow when tapped. Turn out of pans and cool on rack. Cool completely before slicing.  Makes 2 loaves, and worth the effort!  Have a good week!